Violent crimes are the most serious charges a person can face in Colorado. These crimes involve physical harm or the threat of harm to another person and can result in life changing consequences including long prison sentences, large fines, mandatory treatment programs and a permanent criminal record. Common charges in this category include assault, robbery, child abuse, domestic violence and even attempted murder. If you or a loved one has been charged with a violent crime, having a criminal defense attorney is not just helpful – it’s essential.
What are Violent Crime Charges in Colorado Violent crime is not a single charge but a broad category that includes many offenses. Some of the most common are:
- Assault (C.R.S. 18-3-202 through 18-3-204): First, second and third degree assault based on intent and injury.
- Robbery and Aggravated Robbery (C.R.S. 18-4-301): Taking property by force or threat.
- Menacing (C.R.S. 18-3-206): Using threats or actions to cause someone to fear immediate serious bodily injury.
- Child Abuse (C.R.S. 18-6-401): Physical harm, neglect or placing a child in a dangerous situation.
- Domestic Violence Enhancements: Many assault and harassment charges become more severe if they occur in an intimate relationship.
Harsh Penalties and Mandatory Sentences Violent crimes in Colorado are felonies. Convictions can result in:
- Years or even decades in state prison
- Mandatory parole upon release
- Loss of the right to possess firearms
- Permanent inclusion on criminal databases
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
And violent crime convictions often come with mandatory sentences. Judges have little discretion to give lenient sentences in many cases especially when weapons or vulnerable victims are involved such as children or the elderly.
Building a Solid Defense A criminal defense attorney reviews all the evidence and circumstances surrounding the charge. Common defenses may include:
- Self-defense: Showing that the accused acted to prevent imminent harm.
- Lack of intent: Arguing there was no criminal intent behind the actions.
- Mistaken identity: Challenging eyewitness accounts or video footage.
- Violations of rights: Suppressing evidence obtained through illegal searches or coercive interrogations.
Violent crime charges are supported by police reports, forensic evidence and witness statements. A qualified attorney knows how to challenge the evidence and where necessary present expert testimony.
Negotiation and Plea Bargaining In some cases an attorney may be able to negotiate a plea deal to reduce a violent felony to a misdemeanor or non-violent felony. This can mean the difference between probation and prison. An attorney’s negotiation skills and relationships with prosecutors are key to getting the best outcome.
Trial Representation and Jury Strategy If your case goes to trial you need an advocate who knows the courtroom, jury dynamics and the rules of evidence. A violent crime trial is more than presenting facts – it’s about persuading a jury. Your attorney will:
- Voir dire impartial jurors
- Cross-examine prosecution witnesses
- Present favorable evidence and witnesses
- Deliver opening and closing statements
Jury trials are high-stakes and complex. You need an experienced litigator who can counter the prosecution’s narrative and make your side of the story heard.
Impact on Your Life and Future Beyond prison time a violent crime conviction affects almost every area of your life:
- Employment opportunities especially in fields like healthcare, education or law enforcement
- Housing and rental applications
- Professional licensing and certifications
- Parental rights and custody cases
- Reputation in your community
Even if you avoid a conviction the mere allegation of a violent crime can be damaging. An attorney can also help with post-trial relief efforts including record sealing (when applicable), appeals or probation modifications.
Protecting the Rights of the Accused It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless when facing violent crime charges especially in high profile cases or those with media attention. The justice system is complex and often tilted against defendants from the start. A Defense attorney in Colorado Springs is your most important resource to ensure your constitutional rights are respected and your case is handled fairly and ethically.
Support for Families and Loved Ones If a family member is incarcerated or charged with a violent crime a criminal defense attorney can also work with families to keep them informed, involved and supported. This includes help with bail hearings, visiting rights and explaining complex legal terms and timelines.
Conclusion Theft and shoplifting charges are one of the most serious legal problems anyone can face. The stakes are high, and the consequences can last a lifetime. Hiring a criminal defense attorney is not just about legal defense – it’s about getting your future back, asserting your rights and being treated fairly under the law. If you or someone close to you is being accused of theft in Colorado don’t wait. Contact a criminal defense Colorado Springs lawyer today.